“Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory, or an acceptance of the way things are. It's a celebration of progress. It's an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible—and there is still so much work to do." — Barack Obama

As we commemorate Juneteenth, a pivotal milestone in our nation's pursuit of equality and liberation, we are inspired by its profound significance. On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, African Americans, who had endured enslavement, finally received news of their emancipation, marking the official end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit, resilience, and strength of the African American community.

On this important day, we seize the opportunity to CAPture Belonging and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Our mission is to ensure equitable access to mental health resources and compassionate care for individuals of all identities, races, and ethnicities. AACAP embraces the opportunity to reflect on the past, acknowledge the hardships endured, and celebrate the progress we have made in creating a more just and inclusive society. This commemoration allows us to pay tribute to the invaluable contributions of African Americans to our field and underscores the vital importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in improving mental health outcomes for all children and adolescents.

Let us rededicate ourselves to building a future where every child and adolescent can access the compassionate and equitable mental healthcare they deserve. AACAP remains at the forefront of this transformative journey, working passionately to promote inclusivity and equity in our field. We strive to amplify the voices and experiences of minoritized and marginalized communities. By creating a more inclusive and equitable mental health landscape for all youth and families, we want every individual to feel valued, heard, and empowered. Together, we can create transformative and lasting change.

As we reflect on Juneteenth and the strides we have taken towards a more inclusive society, we express our profound gratitude. We are grateful for the privilege to serve the children, families, and communities and the courage and wisdom that they possess.

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion goes beyond mere words; it drives our actions and informs our work each day. Together, we will continue striving for a mental health landscape that uplifts and embraces all individuals, celebrating their strengths and challenges with a true sense of belonging.

Thank you for joining us on this transformative journey. Together, we can create a brighter and more equitable future, where every child and family receives the care they need to fulfill their dreams.

“Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”— Mahatma Gandhi

Sincerely,


Warren Ng, MD
President, AACAP